Abstract:

The transportation sector is an important part of modern society, as it contributes to the growth of economies, the provision of living wages to the masses, and the generation of numerous micro and macroeconomic benefits. The study aims to understand the general perception of electric vehicles among consumers and the barriers to their widespread adoption. The study focuses on identifying and understanding the factors involved in their purchase with a wider range of expression using thematic analysis unlike traditional survey techniques. Further, the role of emotions is also considered in the study which is normally overlooked. eWOM is used as data for the study as it is relevant for electric vehicles as people majorly use internet mediums to freely share their thoughts. This method helps in finding all gaps (tangible and intangible) present in the offering (EVs) and expectations of a consumer. This study also provides with information on relationships amongst these barriers which has a negative cascading effect on overall adoption. Rather than evaluating the technology itself, this study aims to understand the consumers' perceptions of this technology that functions as a barrier.